On this episode of Trumponomics, we look at how Donald Trump’s dealmaking is reshaping corporate America and whether it will outlast his presidency https://t.co/dTTlEROz2P ...

Core Insights - Merger activity is rebounding as US companies gain confidence from clearer policy signals, with a recession appearing unlikely in the US economy [1][3] - Clients have become significantly more active in capital markets, driven by greater clarity on taxes, tariffs, and deregulation [2] - Citigroup's CEO forecasts a decade of strong growth in the Middle East, fueled by investment flows and the creation of new industries [7][8] Market Activity - Companies globally have announced over $1 trillion in deals since June, defying the typical summer slowdown [3] - Goldman Sachs forecasts approximately $3.1 trillion in deal flow for this year and a record $3.9 trillion for 2026, indicating strong momentum in the market [3] - Citigroup has benefited from increased client activity due to market volatility following tariff announcements [4] Economic Outlook - While Citigroup maintains a positive outlook on the US economy, it is closely monitoring the labor market, acknowledging that not all indicators are favorable [3] - Some industry peers express caution regarding the impact of global tariffs on the US economy and inflation, complicating forecasts for Federal Reserve policy [5] - Expectations for a reduction in interest rates by the Federal Reserve are prevalent, but there is uncertainty about the pace of future policy adjustments [6] Regional Focus - The Middle East is viewed as an attractive region for investment, with Gulf states diversifying away from oil and drawing in global financial firms [7][8] - Citigroup anticipates significant growth in the Middle East, supported by expanding business ties with India and China [8]

Market Trends - Dealmaking activity is increasing [1] - Corporate divorces are also on the rise [1] - Some of the largest deals this year involve dismantling megamergers from previous years [1]

Industry Trend - Traditional media companies are actively pursuing deals with podcasters, social-media influencers, and other content creators [1]

Traditional media companies are in a dealmaking frenzy with podcasters, social-media influencers and other content creators https://t.co/Z9y32j35a8 ...

Both domestic and international politics have made a dent in dealmaking in Mexico, a country that over the past few years had been considered a relatively safe bet https://t.co/J4VKsGvPhE ...

Japan’s dealmaking machine looks as cheap, nimble and reliable as a trusty Corolla or a Civic, while American private equity has become a bit of a clunker https://t.co/FZk7aoXdFR ...

Dealmaking Activity - JPMorgan's dealmaking gains suggest a potential easing of tariff fears [1] Market Outlook - Bloomberg Intelligence provides further insights on the implications of this trend [1]

Surprise: dealmaking is up, not down this year. Finance chiefs explain why in the latest CFO Briefing https://t.co/8QMFz07mHp ...

By some measures, dealmaking is off to its best start of the year since 2022 https://t.co/zJ5QayLcRa ...